honorable
honorable Lexical Profile
honorable Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
American Bringing or worthy of high respect and esteem; guided by a strong sense of moral integrity, fairness, and uprightness.
"The judge was widely admired throughout her career as an honorable and impartial public servant."
American Consistent with or conferring honor, credit, or good reputation; free from disgrace or shame.
"After twenty years of dedicated service, she received an honorable discharge and transitioned into civilian life."
American Used as a formal title of respect before the names of certain high-ranking officials, such as judges, mayors, cabinet members, and members of congress or parliament (usually capitalized).
"The keynote address at the legal symposium was delivered by the Honorable Elena Kagan."
Word Nuance & Usage
Spelled 'honorable' in American English and 'honourable' in British and Commonwealth English. Do not confuse it with 'honorary', which refers to a title, degree, or position conferred as a mark of distinction without the usual duties or pay.
• Rhymes for honorable
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in Middle English from Old French 'honorable', from Latin 'honorabilis' ('worthy of honor'), derived from 'honor' ('esteem, public office, or dignity').